The Best Free Things to Do in Amsterdam
How to enjoy the city without spending a cent
The best free things to do in Amsterdam — hidden courtyards, a free art gallery, the Noord ferries, markets and the city's loveliest walks.
Amsterdam can be pricey, but some of its best experiences cost nothing at all. Here's how to enjoy the city for free.
Wander the canals and the Jordaan
The UNESCO canal ring and the Jordaan's lanes are the city's greatest free attraction — just walk and look up.
Relax in Vondelpark
The city's favourite park is free and lively, perfect for a stroll, a picnic, or people-watching.
Find the Begijnhof
A hidden medieval courtyard in the centre, a hushed oasis just steps from the busy Kalverstraat — free to enter.
The Civic Guards Gallery
A free, covered passage of giant Golden Age group portraits, part of the Amsterdam Museum — art without a ticket.
Ride the free Noord ferries
Behind Centraal Station, free ferries cross the IJ to Amsterdam Noord — a mini boat trip and a great view at no cost.
Browse the markets
Wandering the Albert Cuyp, Noordermarkt or the floating Bloemenmarkt is free — you only pay if you buy.
Explore the Nine Streets
The Negen Straatjes are full of independent shops and cafés; window-shopping and people-watching are on the house.
Catch sunset on the IJ
The waterfront behind Centraal and in Noord gives big open skies — one of the city's best free golden-hour spots.
String a few of these together and you've got a full day in Amsterdam for the price of your tram ticket.
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